Which badge will you be wearing this week?

Let's break down what happened LAST WEEK and what we're walking into THIS WEEK:

From the Trenches:

• High of the Week: Share your win – big or small! (Promotion, resolved a conflict, etc.)
• Low of the Week: Let it out. What threw you off your game?
• Surprise of the Week: The thing you didn't see coming, good OR bad.

Incoming!:

• Positive Outlook: What are you HOPING goes smoothly this week?
• Potential Hassle: What are you semi-dreading, but ready to handle?
• Goal of the Week: One thing you want to achieve professionally in the next 7 days.

Catharsis purges the soul! We've all been there. Share your stories, vent a bit if needed, this is a safe (and secure) space.

Why This Thread Exists:

I've been doing my best to post solid security job leads I come across in my daily searches, and it's helped a lot of us stay updated on opportunities. But as many of you know, I'm based in the NY tri-state area, so I can only share what I see around here. Imagine the possibilities if more members chipped in from different regions! The network effect could seriously open doors for more of us, especially with contributions from those who live outside my area and know openings in other places. This thread is here to help make that happen\u2014creating a job board for us, by us.

How to Share Job Leads:

1. Be General: We understand that privacy is key, so feel free to be as general as you need. Instead of posting exact locations, mention broader areas (e.g., my previous company in San Diego is hiring), and let those interested reach out to you for details.
2. Use DMs for Specifics: If someone wants more information, feel free to handle the specifics over DM. This helps prevent any accidental over-sharing and keeps everyone secure.
3. Consider a Throwaway Account: If you're uncomfortable sharing from your main account, you're more than welcome to create a throwaway to post here.
4. Link to Job Sources: When possible, include a link to the job on Indeed, LinkedIn, or the company's website. This verifies the lead without compromising your privacy and helps prevent trolling or spam.

The success of this thread depends on our community's participation, so please feel free to add to the pool if you come across any good leads. Let's help each other out\u2014every post counts! Listen, I'm obviously experimenting with ideas to help other guards out, new and old alike to make this community more valuable and robust, if you think something can be tweaked, added, or omitted to initiatives like this, let me know.

To start us off, these are some promising seeming opportunities from my latest search:

1. Global Security - Command Center Analyst

Company: JPMorgan Chase

Location: New York, NY

Salary: $71,250 - $100,000 per year

LINK TO JOB

Overview:

JPMorgan Chase seeks a Command Center Analyst for their Global Security Operations Center. This role involves monitoring, responding to security incidents, and providing support for crisis management. Responsibilities include situational awareness, crisis support, travel security operations, and collaboration with internal and external teams.

Qualifications:

- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in security operations

- Experience in GIS systems preferred

- Ability to work various shifts, including weekends, holidays, and crises

- Strong communication skills and collaborative abilities

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2. Protection Specialist

Company: Stony Brook University

Salary: $72,000 - $80,000 per year

LINK TO JOB

Overview:

Stony Brook University is hiring a Protection Specialist to join its Public Safety team. This role requires threat assessment, crisis intervention, and collaboration with law enforcement to ensure the safety of the campus. Responsibilities also include emergency response, security management, data analysis, and administration.

Qualifications:

- Associate's degree or 2 years of experience in security/public safety

- New York State Security Guard license and valid NYS Driver\u2019s License

- Experience in emergency management, crisis intervention, and security certifications preferred

---

3. School Security Monitor

Company: Brookfield Public Schools

Location: Brookfield, CT

Salary: From $25.46 per hour

LINK TO JOB

Overview:

Brookfield High School is looking for a School Security Monitor to maintain a safe school environment. Key duties include surveillance, visitor check-in, traffic management, assisting in emergencies, and supporting school administration during drills and lockdowns.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED
• Experience working with youth or in security preferred
• Ability to work outdoors and handle physical responsibilities
• PMT training or willingness to be trained

In the security industry, working at a single site can feel stable – until, one day, it’s not. For most, being removed from a site comes out of nowhere. Since most states are at-will, guards can be removed for a specific reason or no reason at all, as long as it’s not for discrimination. You might not even get another site to work at, which can leave you stranded.

Here are some real-world examples and situations that highlight how quickly your situation can change – without any forewarning.

Contracts on Thin Margins

When it comes to site closures, one of the most common reasons is that contracts get terminated, either by the client or the contractor. Sometimes, a client finds a cheaper provider, or the contractor walks away because the client is demanding more and more without an increase in payment. Other times, it was mutual, the contract end date was reached without being renewed, and the world keeps turning.

I once overheard a G4S manager talking before a training class, saying an account was "likely to go by the wayside" because it had fallen below a certain profit margin. His focus was purely on the lack of profit, not the fact that guards were probably already overworked and underpaid for their responsibilities. It made it clear that profit comes first, and if the numbers don't add up, the contract won’t last, regardless of the guard’s hard work or the client’s expectations.

I have another zinger. I was working for a contractor on a county account that paid $14/hr which was good at the time. All of a sudden, my colleagues and I are gathered together by our manager who "stopped by" and told us that was our last shift. He pointed over to another huddle of guys in uniform who came in shortly after, with who must have been their manager. They were the competing company and he was their company owner settling them into their new site, or that's essentially what I was told. The client went with them to cut costs. The new company was only paying their guards $9.00/hr. So yea...

Favoritism and Connections

Another reality is that favoritism can lead to a guard's removal, even if they’ve done nothing wrong. I had a colleague who was abruptly removed from our post simply because a former guard, who’d lost his in-house security job, wanted his spot back. This guard had a contact with the client and made a quick phone call, and suddenly my colleague was replaced without an explanation. The site supervisor escorted him out without so much as a reason, all to make space for someone with connections.

No Loyalty: When Contractors Change Hands

Sometimes, even without being "let go," guards find themselves under new management without any warning. I worked for a year at a site with Company A. Toward the end of my time there, I noticed a short-suited guy coming in and out of the client’s office more often than usual. It didn’t cross my mind that it might mean anything for me – I just signed him in and sent him on his way.

Then one day, the client informed me, "Starting next month, you’ll be working for Company B. If you want to stay, you'll have to fill out a new application." That suited guy? Turns out, he was Company B’s account manager – my new boss. When I asked Company A’s manager why he hadn’t told me, he was just as surprised as I was. No empathy for the situation or the bind it could put me in. All he could offer was "at least 24 hours as a floater" with Company A, which I, of course, turned down.

When the Client Changes, So Do the Conditions

And sometimes it’s the client that changes while the contractor stays the same. I once worked at a site for Allied, where the client actually agreed to yearly raises for us – a pretty rare, appreciated perk. But that client left, and the new client couldn’t care less about the guards or their wellbeing. They changed my schedule at a whim, with no consideration, the account manager of course rolled over when I brought it to his attention, "the client wants what they want, and we gotta play ball", he said, and it forced me to leave.

Possible Solutions

While these situations can be tough, there are a few ways to handle them. Solutions are limited, but here are a few options that can give you some control over an unpredictable situation:

1. Stay On With the New Client or Contractor Sometimes you can request to stay on under the new client or contractor, as long as it’s agreeable to both parties. New contractors might prefer to replace all the guards to avoid inheriting any unwanted habits from the previous team, or they might want to “reinterview” the current guards to ensure everyone’s a good fit for the new management style. If they’re open to it, it’s up to you whether you stay or go, but having that option on the table can help maintain stability.
2. Stay in the Loop with Your Company If you leave a site and choose to stay with your current company, be proactive in staying in touch with them about finding new work. Follow up consistently, so they know you’re looking for a permanent site rather than just floating. You might have to “pester” them a bit, as some companies prefer to keep reliable guards on as floaters. But staying on top of them can ensure you don’t get overlooked for a permanent placement.
3. Have a Backup Plan After seeing how unpredictable site changes can be, I started keeping a backup part-time job. For instance, when I was offered “at least 24 hours as a floater,” I had a weekend gig already lined up with another security company. That backup became my main job when a full-time role opened up, offering better pay even if it came with less desirable hours. Having a secondary job can give you options if a contract shifts or you’re let go unexpectedly.
4. Always Be Searching Don’t wait for the rug to be pulled. Keep your eyes open for better opportunities, and apply for other positions regularly. This way, you’re the one moving forward rather than getting caught off-guard (ba dum tsss) by changes in a client-contractor relationship where, realistically, guards are the last consideration.
5. Work as a Floater Until You Find Something Better If none of the above is possible, make the most of the “floater” or “fill-in” role for as long as needed. Being a flexible guard can give you some work until a better, more permanent role comes along—whether that’s through your company or somewhere else entirely. Remember, it’s just business, so make the most of the system to stay afloat until you find a role that works better for you.

Some guards don’t seem to realize how disposable we are in this industry, especially working in a contracted capacity, until situations like these hit home. Contracts and client relationships shift all the time, and guards are usually the last to know. If you’ve been through a similar situation or have tips for handling these sudden changes, drop a comment. Knowing you’re not alone in this is one thing, but sharing experiences might actually help the next guard facing an unexpected shift.

Which badge will you be wearing this week?

Let's break down what happened LAST WEEK and what we're walking into THIS WEEK:

From the Trenches:

• High of the Week: Share your win – big or small! (Promotion, resolved a conflict, etc.)
• Low of the Week: Let it out. What threw you off your game?
• Surprise of the Week: The thing you didn't see coming, good OR bad.

Incoming!:

• Positive Outlook: What are you HOPING goes smoothly this week?
• Potential Hassle: What are you semi-dreading, but ready to handle?
• Goal of the Week: One thing you want to achieve professionally in the next 7 days.

Catharsis purges the soul! We've all been there. Share your stories, vent a bit if needed, this is a safe (and secure) space.

You’re a residential security guard nearing the end of your building patrol on the top floor when the roof access alarm goes off. Upon reaching the roof, you find a young lady, around 15 or 16, just outside the access door. She’s visibly distressed, shaking, and crying, muttering things about her personal problems. She’s also shifting closer to the ledge, and the sight of you approaching makes her more agitated—she’s threatening to jump if you come closer.

Here’s what we know:

It's only you and the lobby officer on-site right now, and supervisors aren’t immediately reachable.

Site protocol has basic guidelines for emergencies, but nothing specific for handling someone who’s distraught and suicidal.

She’s already responding poorly to your presence, and any sudden movements seem to increase her agitation. Any misstep could make the situation fatal.

While it’s clear you’d call for police support, what would you say or do to keep her calm in those critical minutes until they arrive?

Hey everyone! After a long wait, I finally snagged the dayshift position, and I'm feeling pretty stoked about it. 😎 I know a lot of guards don’t prefer days due to the early mornings, the higher volume of people and incidents, and the constant presence of managers. While I get that, I’m actually on the other side of the fence—I’d rather clock in early, get my shift done, and enjoy the rest of my day without the work dread creeping up in the afternoon or late at night.

For me, second shift always left me dragging myself to work and counting down the hours until start time, and third shift/graves...that’s a whole lifestyle. You need a solid, consistent sleep routine and have to adjust your personal life around it, which can be hard to sustain without it affecting health, relationships, or social time.

So here I am, finally with the early shift, and I’m curious to hear from the community: What’s your take on shift choice? Do you love your shift, or are you hoping to switch to something else? If you’re on days or have worked it in the past, how did you manage the extra responsibilities that can come with it? Let’s get a good convo going—always interested in hearing everyone’s unique experience and insights!

I always tell you guys, ABS, ALWAYS BE SEARCHING! During my near daily job search I've just stumbled upon a vertiable gold mine of security guard positions. These are ALL IN HOUSE FULL BENEFITS AND FULL TIME SCHEDULES! If you're a guard within reasonable commuting distance and meet the requirements and you're tired of being jerked around by the likes of AUS and Garda, well shrugs and gestures to the below:

1. Hospital Roles – Great Pay + Training

- Top Choice: Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center (MSK)

- Pay Range: $23.03 - $34.67 per hour

- Why Start Here?

- MSK provides thorough training, including paying for the Fire Life Safety Director (FLSD) certification (a massive plus in NYC's security job market).

- Build foundational skills in emergency response, digital surveillance, and customer service in a fast-paced environment.

- Requirements: Valid NYS Security Guard License, experience in similar roles, and capability to handle high-pressure situations.

- Role Details: You’ll monitor building areas, respond to incidents, and ensure a safe, secure environment for patients and staff.

2. Hotel Roles – Top Unarmed Pay with Exclusive Benefits

- Top Picks: 4 Seasons NYC and IC Barclay NY

- Pay Range: $31.11 - $41.47 per hour (Four Seasons) and $28.88 - $38.51 per hour (IC Barclay)

- Why Transition Here?

- Once you’ve obtained an FLSD certification (like the one from MSK), these hotel positions are among NYC’s highest-paying unarmed roles.

- Hotels like the Four Seasons cater to high-profile clients, and you’ll work in a luxury environment with employee benefits like 401k, healthcare, complimentary stays at other Four Seasons properties, free meals, and commuter benefits.

- Requirements: Two years of security experience, NYS Security License, and CPR/First Aid skills. FLSD is a big advantage.

3. University Security – Consistent Hours, Full Benefits

- Top Picks: Princeton University and Yale University Art Gallery

- Pay: Starts around $22.00 per hour for entry-level roles (Princeton).

- Why University Security?

- Secure, full-time union positions with comprehensive benefits and a predictable schedule.

- Engage in community-oriented security, patrolling beautiful campuses, and building strong relationships with staff and students.

- Requirements: Security experience, ability to handle physical tasks, and strong communication skills.

4. NYU Langone Health – Community-Focused, Full-Time

- Pay Range: Starting from $31.52 per hour with benefits.

- Why Consider NYU Langone?

- Known for its inclusive, patient-centered approach, with roles ideal for compassionate professionals interested in healthcare security.

- Requirements: Valid NYS Security Guard License, CPR certification, and experience in similar settings.

Career Advice: Start with MSK for their FLSD certification, then consider applying for Four Seasons or Barclay Hotel roles to maximize your earnings once certified.

Also, I know what you're thinking "NYU? Princeton? Yale? They only pay $2x.xx per hour THATS IT?!?!". Keep in mind that working at an IVY League looks INCREDIBLE on a resume. Leverage, leverage, leverage. Even if you get the job and they literally sit you in a parking lot for 2 years, it wasn't just ANY parking lot, it was the PRINCETON Parking lot. Use that shit to your advantage!

Good Afternoon!

If you're looking to transition from unarmed to armed security, you need to know this path isn’t for everyone. Carrying a firearm comes with a whole new level of responsibility, and there are countless details to consider before you even start. Here’s a breakdown of the process, the skills you'll need, and the real-life stakes that come with this role.

1. Know Your State’s Requirements Inside and Out

Before anything, understand your state’s specific licensing and training requirements. Some states mandate over 40 hours of intensive training, with classes on everything from firearms safety to judgment in life-threatening situations. If you don’t meet these, you won’t get licensed. Be sure to research this on your state’s licensing board website or consult a certified instructor who knows the requirements down to the letter.

2. Background and Mental Health Checks – You’ll Be Scrutinized

Before even touching a gun on duty, you’ll need to pass an extensive background check and, in some cases, a mental health screening. Even minor legal issues can disqualify you. Agencies need to know you’re capable of handling high-pressure situations responsibly, which means your record and mental health need to be clean and stable.

Many states will look for criminal records, even minor misdemeanors, and require disclosures on past mental health history. This part of the process is non-negotiable. Be sure your records are in good order before investing in training, as any disqualifying issue could bar you from certification.

3. Firearms Training: It’s a Lot More Than Just Shooting Straight

Firearms training is intensive, and every shot matters. Here’s what to expect:

- Accuracy and Accountability: Every round you fire, you’ll be responsible for. You can’t just hit a target and be done; you need to understand what’s behind it and the potential risk to bystanders.

- Justifying Every Round: One of the golden rules here is that you must articulate and justify every shot fired. If you fire two rounds, you have to explain why each was necessary. A cop in my firearms course shared a case where an officer fired two rounds in rapid succession at a suspect. The first was justified; the second was deemed excessive force, leading to charges against the officer. Think about it: if a cop can face consequences for what the court sees as “excessive,” imagine how much scrutiny a security guard might face.

- Stances, Movements, and Unconventional Shooting: You’ll be trained on various stances and techniques. Expect to practice firing from different positions, including off-hand shots. These are situations where you may need to fire from cover or without your dominant hand. Tap-rack-bang drills are essential to ensure you can clear a malfunction and get back on target.

- Realistic Scenarios and Life-or-Death Decisions: Training will cover rapid threat assessments. You need to make quick but sound judgments – when to shoot and, more importantly, when not to. A failure to assess the backdrop behind your target can mean legal trouble if someone else is harmed.

The training will be mentally and physically taxing, but it’s designed that way for a reason.

4. Additional Skills Beyond Shooting: Communicate and De-escalate

As an armed guard, you’re not just expected to carry a gun; you’re expected to de-escalate before ever needing to draw it. Here’s what you’ll need:

- De-escalation Techniques: You’ll learn tactics to calm situations down, as your weapon is only a last resort.

- Clear Communication: In intense situations, clear communication can prevent escalation and promote cooperation. You’ll be trained to use calm but assertive language.

- Critical Decision-Making and Awareness: Situational awareness and quick thinking are everything. You’ll be responsible for recognizing potential threats and assessing when force may be required. Every decision to escalate is one you’ll need to articulate to a hiring agency, court, or investigator.

5. Expect Financial and Time Investments

Becoming an armed security guard isn’t just mentally and physically demanding; it’s also financially demanding. Here’s a rundown:

- Training Costs: Fees vary but can run from $500 up to $2,000. You’ll pay for firearms training, background checks, and mental health screening.

- Certification and Licensing Fees: States may charge additional fees for the licensing exam, fingerprinting, and other administrative processes.

Some employers may offer support with costs, especially if they’ve already hired you, but independent guards will need to cover these expenses on their own.

6. Recertification and Continuing Education: The Responsibility Never Stops

Even once you’re certified, **you’re never really done with training**. Most states require regular requalification, which means annual or biannual firearms re-certification. You may need to take refresher courses on de-escalation, use-of-force laws, and firearms handling.

Staying up to date with these requirements isn’t just about staying compliant – it’s about staying sharp in a role that requires top-tier vigilance and responsibility.

Pro Tip: Physical Conditioning and Ongoing Shooting Practice

Moving to an armed role often involves higher standards in physical conditioning. Many of us find that practicing shooting under high-stress conditions – like shooting after physical exertion – helps prepare us for the demands of real-life scenarios.

This job requires not only tactical skills but the physical readiness to handle emergencies. Regular training is crucial if you want to be the kind of armed guard who’s ready for anything.

Scenario: You're an armed officer at a casino.

A man bursts into the front door with a ski mask waving a gun around frantically demanding everybody get on the ground. He fires a round in the air then aims his weapon at you. You deem lethal force is justified, but your weapon jams as you squeeze the trigger. What should you be doing in that moment of realization?

What should you do in that split second? Here’s where training and muscle memory mean everything.

According to my firearms instructor, the worst thing you can do in that moment is pause to visibly inspect your gun to figure out why it jammed. Even a two-second hesitation could be deadly. Instead, your immediate response should be to aggressively engage the suspect – not by firing, but by shifting into a fully hostile, intimidating stance.

1. Scream and Aggressively Posture: Start yelling at the top of your lungs, something loud and forceful like, “DROP IT NOW!” This sudden, intense aggression may destabilize the suspect psychologically, buying you fractions of a second while you clear the jam.
2. Simultaneously Run Through Tap-Rack: Without taking your eyes off the threat, you should be running through the ‘Tap-Rack’ steps to clear the jam:
   • Tap the bottom of your magazine firmly to make sure it’s properly seated.
   • Rack the slide to eject any faulty round and chamber a new one.
3. Bang? Not Yet. Assess First. If you manage to clear your weapon without getting shot, you have a split-second choice. You must reassess the situation to determine if lethal force is still justified. Your training teaches you to justify every round you fire, so even in a life-or-death moment, you’re responsible for ensuring lethal force is the appropriate choice.

The reality is that handling malfunctions under pressure isn’t just about technical skill – it’s about mental resilience and being able to act without second-guessing your training. This level of readiness requires repetition and conditioning, so if you’re considering an armed role, these scenarios aren’t just hypotheticals. They’re essential parts of your survival toolkit.

I won't sit here and lie to you guys, I have the license, but haven't had the need to seek out an armed position. I'm honestly not too keen on it. I got the license because it's better to have it in case a suitable position opens and I deem it necessary to pursue. I'm sure some of the current armed officers have faced an actual IRL situation similar to this and I'd be interested in hearing your stories.

Have you ever worked with a security guard who can turn a routine task into a complete disaster? I've worked with several. This industry attracts all kinds, but in my time in, I've seen certain constants in terms of personality and behaviors.

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1. Curly:

Curly is that guard who takes role-playing to a whole new level. Decked out in fake badges and tactical gear, he acts like he’s a cop, except, well... he's uhh not?

Maybe he flunked out of the academy, quit the force because he couldn’t cut it, or got fired for doing something extremely dumb. Or maybe, it's the retired cop who thinks their past experience gives them more authority than the job allows. Either way, Curly spends more time pretending than actually doing the job, constantly crossing boundaries and risking serious legal trouble. Annoying? Yup. Dangerous? Definitely.

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2. Larry

Next up is Larry, the guard who's already mentally clocked out before his shift begins. Whether he's dozing off (or already snoring by the time you see him), glued to his phone, or staring blankly into space, Larry is the king of complacency. His laziness doesn't only cause massive security gaps, HE IS THE SECURITY GAP, and if something important happens on his watch, even if noticed, he'll just conveniently ignore it. Larry might complain about the job, but if an all hands transmission goes out? He's the guard that's slips and trips 13 times on his way to the scene and gets there 22 minutes after it's over, panting with water splashed in his face to make it seem like he was doing his damndest to make it there quickly. Sure...

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3. Moe

Moe is the eternal pessimist who’s always in a bad mood. He finds a reason to hate, disparage or insult anything or anyone who has the misfortune of coming into contact with him, and his negativity spreads faster than a fire in a dry forest. The result? A toxic work environment that tanks team morale and communication. Moe doesn’t just create tension—he can ruin a wet dream. When he's around, good teamwork goes right out the window.

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4. Shemp

Shemp is the gear-obsessed guard who shows up to every shift prepared for an apocalypse that’s never going to happen. He probably has 85 boxes of MRE's bought in bulk from Costco, because you never know right? With enough equipment to rival a SWAT team, Shemp’s obsession with gadgets turns a routine patrol into a gear showcase. He might pop a mini drone in the air to observe those teens smoking on the property.

Problem is, Shemp's over-preparation only slows him down. His gear might look cool, but in the world of security, practicality beats showmanship 10 times outta 10.

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5. Overreacting Andy

Finally, we have Overreacting Andy—the guard who... overreacts to everything. A noise complaint? He's ready to mule kick the door down and toss a flash bang in. Routine call? Better call backup. Andy treats every shift like an action movie, and while his enthusiasm might seem admirable at first, it’s really just him doing wayyyy too much.

Like Curly, Andy loves his tactical gear, but with one key difference: Andy never even tried to become a cop. He skipped straight to security, determined to make every shift his "big break."

But all he’s doing is stressing out his coworkers and being looked at with scrunched, confused faces by clients and management.

Which badge will you be wearing this week?

Let's break down what happened LAST WEEK and what we're walking into THIS WEEK:

From the Trenches:

• High of the Week: Share your win – big or small! (Promotion, resolved a conflict, etc.)
• Low of the Week: Let it out. What threw you off your game?
• Surprise of the Week: The thing you didn't see coming, good OR bad.

Incoming!:

• Positive Outlook: What are you HOPING goes smoothly this week?
• Potential Hassle: What are you semi-dreading, but ready to handle?
• Goal of the Week: One thing you want to achieve professionally in the next 7 days.

Catharsis purges the soul! We've all been there. Share your stories, vent a bit if needed, this is a safe (and secure) space.

Hey fellow guards and security professionals,

As part of building a stronger, more informed community here at r/GuardGuides, we’re dropping a quick reminder about the Neighboring Guardians! These are other related subreddits that cover various aspects of security work, from hospital security to executive protection, armed security, and more.

Here’s a list of subreddits you might find useful:

🔒 r/Guards – A space for security guards to share ads and promotional videos. (452 members)

🏥 r/HospitalSecurity – Dedicated to those in hospital and healthcare security (273 members)

🚔 r/SecurityVehicles – For discussions and posts of security vehicles and patrol cars (112 members)

🛡️ r/eptrainingus – Focused on executive protection training and skills (55 members)

👁️ r/ObserveAndReport – Centered on basic security duties and skills (91 members)

🎩 r/Executive_Protection – For those in or aspiring to be in executive protection roles (154 members)

🚨 r/SecurityGuardsOnly – A private community exclusively for security guards (482 members)

🌍 r/OnTheBlock – Covers all things related to corrections (24,744 members)

🕵️‍♂️ r/PrivateInvestigator – A community for those in the private investigation field (4,103 members)

🔍 r/Criminology – For those interested in the academic study of crime (23,435 members)

🎰 r/CasinoSecurity – Discussions and experiences about working in casino security (175 members)

🔫 r/armedsecurityguards – For those in armed security roles (191 members)

Feel free to check them out, share your experiences, and contribute to the broader security community. The more we support each other, the stronger we all become!

If there are any other subs you think should be added to this list, let us know in the comments!

As many (probably all) of you know, Allied Universal is one of the largest security contractors in the world, with a massive presence across 90+ countries and hundreds of thousands of employees. But behind the size and scale, what's it really like to work for this behemoth? I’ve had multiple stints with Allied Universal, and I want to share my story to shed some light on their operations, from personal experiences to their rise to dominance in the security world. I recounted this story in in video form in an expose type format if you're interested.

How I Got Started with Allied

I first crossed paths with Allied Universal back in 2009 when they were in the process of absorbing smaller companies across the country. I was fresh out of retail and found myself working a small gig at a local college. It was a simple enough job, but the pay was bare-bones, the supervisors lacked qualifications, and most of my coworkers were on their way out. The turnover rate? High.

And this trend wasn’t limited to my experience. Allied seemed to have a knack for acquiring companies while doing little to change their internal problems, and after a few frustrating months, I moved on.

But Allied wasn’t done with me.

The Acquisition Web

Years later, I found myself working at another site – this time for a private hanger. This was under US Security Associates, a company that Allied Universal eventually absorbed. My stint there was short-lived because of issues with scheduling, but the funny thing is, I left the job only to find out later that Allied Universal had taken over US Security Associates.

Everywhere I went, Allied was either already there or not far behind. It felt like they were taking over every corner of the security industry.

The G4S Takeover

In another twist of fate, I joined G4S for a different job. Guess what? Allied eventually acquired them too. At this point, the acquisitions felt like a revolving door of new uniforms, same problems.

One thing that always stood out to me was how little would actually change after these acquisitions. More frequent visits from supervisors who were just there to “check in” or micromanage. The new ownership never brought improvements, only more control from Allied's corporate machine.

Controversy and Lawsuits

Like many others, I’ve heard (and experienced) some of the company’s controversies firsthand. Allied has a pattern of winning contracts while often being understaffed, leaving guards in dangerous situations without the necessary training or equipment. And then there are the paycheck issues—I've personally received notice about a class-action settlement over incorrect pay calculations.

It’s situations like this that reinforce Allied's complicated reputation. They offer a foothold into the security world but often fall short when it comes to employee treatment and training.

So, Should You Work for Allied?

For anyone considering Allied Universal as a career option, my advice is to proceed with caution. They’re a massive player in the industry, and yes, they have a ton of openings due to high turnover. But they often provide minimal pay, inconsistent support, and the same issues crop up no matter how many companies they acquire.

Use it as a stepping stone, gain experience, but don’t plan to stick around long-term unless you're really satisfied with the pay and conditions at your site. And if you're in the security industry long enough, you’ll probably end up working for them at some point – they’re basically unavoidable.

What’s Your Experience?

How many times have you been absorbed into this monstrosity? Or maybe you were lucky enough to be overlooked.

Which badge will you be wearing this week?

Let's break down what happened LAST WEEK and what we're walking into THIS WEEK:

From the Trenches:

• High of the Week: Share your win – big or small! (Promotion, resolved a conflict, etc.)
• Low of the Week: Let it out. What threw you off your game?
• Surprise of the Week: The thing you didn't see coming, good OR bad.

Incoming!:

• Positive Outlook: What are you HOPING goes smoothly this week?
• Potential Hassle: What are you semi-dreading, but ready to handle?
• Goal of the Week: One thing you want to achieve professionally in the next 7 days.

Catharsis purges the soul! We've all been there. Share your stories, vent a bit if needed, this is a safe (and secure) space.

Twinkie was a coworker at my second to last gig.

Nobody was really sure how old she was, possibly late 20s early 30s. She lived with her parents in a small town about 50 miles from the city (Can't fault her for that) and she was WAAAAAAAY on the spectrum.

The site we worked at was a FedEx warehouse. I was there for 3 years at the end of the first year FedEx moved to their new facility on the East edge of town and our site became a dumping ground for Flex officers who needed hours or had been removed from other sites. I stayed there because the project manager didn't like me and I was completely okay with working by myself nights and not having to f*** around with client employees our client customers.

When Twinkie first started working the site we had a supervisor, Twinkie relieved her. She would show up at exactly 58 minutes after the hour everyday. She would ignore any attempts by the supervisor to brief her or give her any Pass Downs but Twinkie DEMANDED that I show up 7 minutes before the start of my shift even though she never briefed me. She would just pull up next to my car in the parking lot, hand me the phone out her window and drive away.

On Saturday mornings when Twinkie relieved me she would arrive on site around 3 minutes till and walk right past my car and into the office and make me BRING her the phone. One morning she showed up at about 5 till and I walked into the office and I went to hand her the phone and she told me I couldn't leave till 6:59. I put the phone on the table in the break room told her to kiss my ass and walked out. After that I sent my report and clocked out at 7 minutes till the end of my shift, the earliest time I was allowed to clock out, left the phone on the desk and drove away as soon as she showed up. She began annotating in her DAR that I had REFUSED to give her a briefing.

Twinkie was not the sharpest knife in the drawer. The concept of turnabout is fair play in never occurred to her. The next night I relieved her she tried to hand me the phone at my car and drive away, I told her she can hand me the phone in the office or not at all. She drew back like she was going to throw it at me and I told that if she did that phone would lay in the parking lot all night and I'd tell the Program Manager she never gave it to me and I had no idea what happened to it.

Like I said Twinkie wasn't the brightest crayon in the box, our supervisor used to feed squirrels on her shift (she wasn't too bright either). She tamed them to the point that they would sit in the car with her. So one afternoon Twinkie tried to hand feed a squirrel and got BIT. AND SHE WAS DUMB ENOUGH TO REPORT IT TO THE OFFICE.. Now, I understand reporting a legitimate work related injury and expecting to have Worker's Comp handle the claim but when it's your own stupidity and you got hurt doing something you WEREN'T SUPPOSED TO BE DOING IN THE FIRST PLACE?

Not Twinkie's brightest moment.

Every guard knows that when you start a new job or get assigned to a new site, one of the first things fellow guards share with you is the 'spots'—those out-of-the-way places where you can go in between patrols, during lunch breaks, or during downtime between calls. These are low trafficked areas that can help with getting through long shifts or sequestering away to write an incident report without interruption.

For instance, at one of my sites, I had a spot on an 'in-between floor'—floor 2.5. It was an unassuming door leading to a stairwell that led to a storage area between the 2nd and 3rd floors. No one ever really went there, and it was the perfect place to catch a quiet moment. The site manager had a motto: 'Answer the damn radio when I call you, and we won’t have any problems!' So up to 2.5 I’d go after a vehicle patrol.

What 'spots' have you come across at your sites?

Certifications are one of the best ways to stand out in the security industry and open doors to better opportunities. I’ve personally seen how getting the right certifications—whether it’s armed security, FLSD, or other specialized training—can boost your career, increase your pay, and land you better positions.

But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which ones are really worth your time and investment. I’m curious to hear from you:

• Which certifications have made the biggest difference in your career?
• Were there any that landed you a higher-paying role or opened doors to jobs you wouldn’t have gotten otherwise?
• Are there certifications you recommend others focus on if they want to advance?

Let’s hear what’s worked for you—whether you’re just starting out or have been in the field for years. What’s the best investment you’ve made in your security career?

Which badge will you be wearing this week?

Let's break down what happened LAST WEEK and what we're walking into THIS WEEK:

From the Trenches:

• High of the Week: Share your win – big or small! (Promotion, resolved a conflict, etc.)
• Low of the Week: Let it out. What threw you off your game?
• Surprise of the Week: The thing you didn't see coming, good OR bad.

Incoming!:

• Positive Outlook: What are you HOPING goes smoothly this week?
• Potential Hassle: What are you semi-dreading, but ready to handle?
• Goal of the Week: One thing you want to achieve professionally in the next 7 days.

Catharsis purges the soul! We've all been there. Share your stories, vent a bit if needed, this is a safe (and secure) space.

It’s no secret that a lot of young security guards see their job as a stepping stone into law enforcement—hoping that working in security will give them a leg up in transitioning into PD. But here’s a question: Would security guards be better served by using the industry as a stepping stone into corrections instead?

There’s been a lot of debate about whether or not security really helps you transition into PD or improves your chances of getting hired. Some say it gives you relevant experience; others argue it does little to prepare you for law enforcement work. However, corrections could be an easier and more natural next step for those looking to progress their careers.

Sure, corrections definitions and classifications vary from state to state—some see corrections officers as part of law enforcement, some classify them as peace officers, while in other states, they’re in their own category. But for the sake of simplicity, let’s look at the move from security guard to corrections officer and whether it might make more sense for some guards.

Here’s why I think it could be a solid option:

1. Relevant Experience: Security work, especially in high-risk or controlled environments, often overlaps with the kind of duties corrections officers handle, such as managing behavior, monitoring people, and de-escalating situations.
2. Less Competitive Transition: While police departments tend to have long waiting lists and extremely competitive hiring processes, corrections may offer a more straightforward hiring process, especially for guards who already have some experience managing difficult situations.
3. Potential Career Path: Moving into corrections could offer more career growth opportunities, stability, and training that many security jobs lack. It’s also an environment where skills like situational awareness and behavior management are even more crucial.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that corrections is an easier job by any stretch, but it could be a better fit for guards who want to move into a field where they can have more authority, direct involvement with public safety, and a clear career path.

What do you think? Has anyone here made the jump from security to corrections? Would you consider corrections over PD, and do you think security is a good stepping stone for it?

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before. I used to work access control at a site where they had a clearly posted sign of rules, one of which being “NO CELL PHONES.” Simple enough, right? Well, here’s the kicker: the client supervisor had her own way of enforcing this rule. She allowed customers to use their phones, but only if they were on silent or had headphones in, and no phone calls were allowed.

Sounds reasonable on paper, but in practice, it was a nightmare. Customers either forgot or ignored the rule, and we had to play constant whack-a-mole every time someone made a call or started watching YouTube without headphones. What should have been an easy rule to enforce became a daily headache, and the client supervisor would glare if we didn’t enforce the "no phone calls" rule selectively.

So, I took it upon myself (well, me and my coworker) to mitigate the chaos. We started asking everyone to turn their phones off upon entry. It worked. It was way easier to enforce the rule upfront rather than chase people down later. Of course, the client supervisor wasn’t happy at first, and she even called our contract manager to complain. But after explaining the situation to both of them, they came around, and we were allowed to keep doing it our way.

What about you? Have you had to enforce client rules that make NO sense and only served to complicate a simple job? Let’s hear some of the worst ones you’ve had to deal with.

Ever hear of the old trick where guards would hold onto their keys during night shifts? The idea was that if you nodded off, the keys would drop and wake you up before you could get into any real trouble. Simple, but effective.

Here is another one that\u2019s not old, but it can save you in a pinch: Smartphone Front Pocket Recording. Not everybody has a bodycam, and they may even be prohibited by site or company policy. There is also a risk inherent in using your personal device to store work related incidents, but it's an option if you need irrefutable proof to C.Y.A. in certain cases.

If you are approaching a potentially sketchy situation, like responding to a noise complaint or any call where things could escalate, hit record on your smartphone and slip it into your front pocket, camera facing out. If things go sideways, you will have your own footage to back you up, especially if it is a \u201che said, she said\u201d situation.

Anyone else have hacks or tricks they have used on the job? Maybe something that sounds old-school but still works like a charm?

Rules For Life Security Edition

You are never more than one bad decision away from losing your job.

Security is to be seen and not heard.

Never engage in an unnecessary conversation.

Never draw unnecessary attention to yourself.

Never miss a good opportunity to shut up.

Client employees are not your friends.

Neither are your coworkers.

Never trust your coworkers to cover for you.

The Less your coworkers or client employees know about your personal life the better off you are.

Neither coworkers nor client employees need to be on your Social Media.

Even if your boss asks you for it they do not want to hear your opinion.

Never assume no one's paying attention to you.

Never assume nobody saw you.

Always assume that you were on camera.

Always assume you are not being told the whole story.

Always follow your written post orders. Always document that you followed your written post orders.

Always err on the side of caution.

Stay in your lane.

Never make decisions above your pay grade. If you don't know what to do in a given situation contact your supervisor and ask them what you should do. Do exactly what they tell you to do and document that you did exactly what they told you to do.

If you didn't document it it never happened.

If it didn't happen on your shift it's none of your business.

Never trust in the kindness of strangers.

Question people's motives.

Never put anything that you wouldn't want your boss or all of your co-workers to read on a company computer.

Always assume the shift before you didn't do their rounds.

Check everything you're supposed to check, every time youre supposed to check it.

Always have a pen and notebook on you at work.

Never put anything work related on your personal phone

Let’s talk about something that’s been on my mind lately. There’s this idea that we, as security officers, owe management some kind of loyalty or voluntary information sharing—like we should go out of our way to help them keep everyone in line. But let me ask you: what do we really owe them? In my opinion, we owe management nothing.

There’s a simple truth here that often gets overlooked: there is an inherently adversarial relationship between employer and employee. It’s not personal—it’s just the way the game is set up. Employees (that’s us) want the highest pay, the most comfortable working conditions, and to do our jobs with as little hassle as possible. Employers, on the other hand, want the exact opposite: the most work for the least pay and the least investment in comfort (because comfort costs).

We all know it’s a game, and we’re all just players trying to survive.

But here’s where it gets tricky—how many of us have seen guards who volunteer information to management without being asked? Not exactly ratting someone out, but close enough. Picture this: Gabby Guard Gabriel sees Officer Tom struggling—maybe Tom’s been up all night because of a screaming newborn and might have nodded off in a quiet post. Instead of giving him some slack, Gabby goes up to Supervisor Sam and says, “Hey, where’s Officer Tom? Shouldn’t he be at Post 12?” Fully aware of Tom’s situation, yet making a comment designed to raise suspicion.

Why? What’s in it for Gabriel? A pat on the back? A "good job" and a Scooby snack from the boss? Maybe some misplaced sense of duty? But does it come with a raise? A bonus? A promotion? Unlikely. What’s more likely is it results in the mistrust of your peers and no actual reward.

And here’s the kicker: why are we so quick to volunteer information to management, especially when management likely sees us with disdain or distrust to begin with? What do we get out of playing their game? More work with less pay and fewer resources? And it’s not just guards either—I've seen supervisors defend the same managers who left them out to dry. These supervisors are told to do more with less staff, fewer hours, and limited resources because upper management wants to cut costs. When these issues are brought up, the supervisor’s knee-jerk reaction is to defend the higher-ups.

Why? Because they’re part of the game too. Criticizing those above them makes them feel vulnerable or like they’re next on the chopping block. Plus, there’s this attitude that criticism from subordinates—us guards—isn't valid. We’re “just guards,” after all, right? What could we possibly know?

But the real irony? Those higher-ups likely see supervisors as just overpaid guards with a fancier title and maybe a suit instead of a uniform. So why are we so quick to protect them, to defend them, to do their job for them?

Look, I’m not saying all management is bad, and this isn’t some anti-supervisor rant—far from it. It’s just about recognizing the reality: we’re not on the same team as management. We don’t owe them anything beyond what’s required to do the job we’re paid for. So, next time you’re tempted to offer up information they didn’t ask for, or throw a coworker under the bus—ask yourself, what’s in it for you?

If you're prepping for the FDNY Fire Guard Exam for F01, F02, F03, or F04 certifications, this thread is for you. I’ve compiled key info from my YouTube video to help you get ready for the test and get your Fire Guard license in NYC. This is a license specific to NYC but there is information that is a useful refresher regardless of your location. You can watch the full video here, but here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.

Test Basics:

• Location: 9 Metro Tech Center, Brooklyn, NY. Accessible via the R, A, C, and F trains.

• Availability: Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 2:30 PM (excluding holidays).

• Duration: 30 minutes.

• Format: 20 multiple-choice questions, passing score is 70%.

• Validity: The certificate is valid for 3 years.

Key Info for F01 & F02:

• F01 is the Fire Guard for Impairment certification, which is required when fire systems (sprinklers, alarms, etc.) are out of service.

• F02 is for Fire Guard in Shelters, ensuring fire safety in shelters. Your duties include regular patrols and record-keeping.

• Bonus: If you're F02 certified, you don’t need F01 to work in shelters.

Fire Classes to Remember:

• Class A: Common combustibles (wood, trash).

• Class B: Flammable liquids (gasoline).

• Class C: Electrical equipment.

• Class D: Combustible metals.

• Class K: Cooking media (oils, grease).

Fire Guard Responsibilities:

• Conduct hourly patrols, keep a logbook, check emergency exits, and ensure fire protection systems like sprinklers are working.

• Hot work (welding, cutting) requires a permit, and no work is allowed if the fire system is down.

• Know how to use fire extinguishers with the PASS system: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

Impairment Coordinator Role:

• If fire systems are out of service, the building owner or assigned coordinator manages the fire watch.

• After 4 hours, only F01-certified guards can take over fire watch duties.

For F03 and F04 Certifications:

• These are for crowd management in places of assembly (sports arenas, dance halls, etc.).

• The F03 test has 25 questions, and once you pass, you can pay a fee to get the F04 without retaking the exam.

Emergency Protocols:

• For fire: Call 911 and activate the fire alarm.

• For bomb threats: Don’t touch suspicious items, call 911.

• For active shooter situations: Remember ABC - Avoid, Barricade, Confront.

If you were job searching 1-4 years ago, you know the floodgates were wide open. It was a buyer's market. Back then, landing high-paying security jobs was easier, with positions paying $25+ per hour popping up frequently. Before then, many of the best-paying jobs were reserved for those with inside connections, law enforcement experience, or security professionals who could sell water to a whale in interviews.

Today, the market has tightened significantly. Those high-paying jobs have returned to being more exclusive, requiring strict prerequisites, while pay for those not in that category dropped back to bottom tier levels. But my motto has ever been ABS or, 'Always Be Searching,' because even if you have a good job now, there’s always a better one out there that you are qualified for, you just don’t know about it yet.

Adapting with AI:

Times change, and the way we job search has to change too. With AI literally everywhere, job hunting has become more efficient, and I’ve tested several AI-powered platforms to streamline this process. Security and other companies have been leveraging AI for years, not least of which is the ATS Application Tracking System software that scans, filters and discards resumes, and applications automatically. We'd be foolish to not level the playing field by leveraging the power of AI for our own job searching uses. Here’s my guide to using these tools to save time and increase your chances of landing a great security job. I have affiliate links integrated if you'd like to upgrade and support.

Tool Recommendations:

1. LazyApply (Paid):
   • LazyApply is a game-changer if you're willing to invest in a completely automated job search across major platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and more. It's ideal for bulk applying, where you set your parameters (e.g., security guard, location, salary) and it applies for you.
   • Pricing:

• Basic Plan: $99 (This is the plan I use, and it has saved me countless hours.)
• Premium Plan: $129
• Unlimited Plan: $249
  • Pros: Full automation, huge time-saver. Lifetime access for all tiers.
  • Cons: No free version.
  • Lazy Apply Pricing

Screen Shot of My Lifetime Tier Access Dashboard

2. Swooped (Free & Paid Tiers):

• For a free option, check out Swooped, an AI-powered job platform that helps you apply quickly to jobs through its partner companies. The free tier allows you to search and apply to jobs, but the real power lies in the paid tier, which integrates with job boards and customizes your resume and cover letters for each job.
• Pricing:
• Free Plan: Unlimited applications on Swooped's job board.
• Monthly Plan: $39 per month
• Quarterly Plan: $29 per month (billed as $87 every 3 months)
• Annual Plan: $12 per month (billed as $144 per year)
  • Pros: Great free tier for limited job searches; strong customization features in paid tiers.
  • Cons: More limited in job board integration without upgrading.
  • Swooped Pricing

Job Dashboard for Hospital Job I'm Tracking via Swooped

Swooped Dashboard With Resume Sample from Tracked Hospital Job

3. AIApply (Paid):

• Lastly, there’s AIApply, which combines automation and interview preparation tools. It goes beyond basic job search automation with features like **Interview Buddy**, which uses AI to help you answer questions in real-time during interviews. It’s great for those looking to prepare for tough interviews while also automating their job search.
• Pricing:
• Monthly Plan: $29 per month
• Quarterly Plan: $19 per month (billed as $57 per quarter)
• Lifetime Plan: $199 one-time payment
  • Pros: Unique AI interview prep; solid automation.
  • Cons: Bulk auto-apply is an additional cost on top of the standard plan.
  • AIApply Pricing

AIApply Cover Letter and Resume Generated Based off of My Free Resume Template

How to Get Started:

To make the most of these tools, you’ll want to start with a well-crafted resume. I’ve created a free resume template specifically tailored for security guards, which you can download and use as your base. Once you’ve got that, you can upload it into any of the AI platforms above to start automating your job search.

Free Resume Template

My Experience:

Using these tools, I’ve already been on several promising interviews and am awaiting offers. Don't be fooled though, as no matter the promises of the marketing copy on their websites, none of these tools are a magic bullet, but they drastically cut down on the time and effort needed to apply, which is pivotal in today’s job market.

That's All:

Whether you're looking for a free option or willing to invest in a paid plan, these AI tools can help you optimize your job search and land better opportunities. Remember, in today’s competitive market, having the right tools can give you the edge you need.

Be Safe